AuRico Gold Inc. (TSX: AUQ) (NYSE: AUQ), ("AuRico" or the "Company") today announced that Mr. Colin Benner, the Company's Executive Chairman, is taking a leave of absence for health reasons. Mr. Ron Smith, the Company's Lead Director, will serve as Non-Executive Chairman in the interim. Mr. Smith has been a non-executive director of the Company since 2009 and is chair of the Audit Committee.

About AuRico Gold
AuRico Gold is a leading Canadian gold producer with mines and projects in North America that have solid production growth and exploration potential. The Company is focused on its core operations including the Young-Davidson gold mine in northern Ontario and the El Chanate mine in Sonora State, Mexico. AuRico's project pipeline also includes advanced development opportunities in Canada and Mexico. AuRico's head office is located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.